“The Soul of Music-Faith Edition” Highlights

I never was a concert promoter nor do I organize many events, but I must say that this night was on my heart for a very long time. I love to sing, I love the arts, i love the Lord and I want to share my gift everywhere, even in unconventional places. Tonight, the ambience was perfect and the atmosphere conducive to a night of worship, praise and fellowship with about 50 or so of Toledo’s greatest residents!!!

UT Impact was in the house!!! Whoop whoop! Old fiends from school and church; and from growing up were all there. Family, friends and co laborers in the ministry all came out to support an awesome night in the Lord!

We laughed and joked, went old school and were all the way live!! Many thanks to the <3 Musik band. Cam, Gav, Keem and Dev!!!! Yall were HOTTTTT!!! Check them out on MYSPACE!!!!
GP and True Religion, Win So Cal, Project P Hood, Beatmaster

A devoted husband,father and business partner (project360studios) Brotha Al hyped it up with 2 Holy Hip Hop Joints, The Race (my fave, and On the Move (pardon if I got the title wrong). His CD, plow the dirt is available at www.cdbaby.com/brothaal.

Eternal Fiyah spit “His Eye is on the Sparrow” an original poem that reflected on what we take for granted that even the birds appreciate and give God praise for. He also held it down with an original track (Jesus on my heart) That’s a hot track! There was some finger snapping and toe tapping. E.F. tells the truth in a common sense way that people can understand. He is deep but not so far away that people can’t be reached. I like that.

Apphia and Heart Musik, Lord, her writing is amazing! Not only was the music a perfect blend of acoustic soul, and an occasional jazz chord (lol)), she still took us to church with her lyrics and the delivery of a message so powerful! Released is THE song, every time I fall in love with one of her songs, she comes with something new that inspires me all over again. She has a soul winning ministry and it is a true testament to who God is to her. The crowd was on their feet singing “…anoint my head with oil”…hands uplifted…Thanks Apphia <3

Tymara!!!!! She is a powerhouse with a message and a sound that commands attention! It will certainly destroy yolks, her voice is an authority! You must listen to the way she executes each lyric, you know they come from her heart and soul. She sang “Infatuated” and it was great! Everyone felt it as she sang about the way she feels toward God. She is working on an album and it is sure to top Gospel charts the moment it is released! You can download her single, “My Prayer” at www.cdbaby.com/tymara

We also had open mic and that was filled with surprises! Brittony came forth with an original tune, “Plan for Me”. Now her voice is like that of a hummingbird, sweet and airy. She has this Debra Killings meets Lisa McClendon sound…

Armonn followed up with a song that went into a “Yes” mode, and we worshipped! I like this guy He had a raspy voice that made each note sound like it was an instrument-a tenor sax. You can tell from the way he sang, that he was sincere and yes, the whole coffee house joined in to sing with him!

Andrea took us to a place of worship with her rendition of “I Love you Jesus”. We all joined in to share the worship experience. She has a nice full voice with those velvety tones that we love to hear with India Arie and nem Thanks, Andrea for sharing your gift with us and you looked lovely, too.

Clarence came and danced to “Yesterday”. While Coko was playing in the background, the peeps cleared the floor for him to dance. When he took his shoes off, they said “It’sserious when the shoes come off” LOL We had a few LOL moments ya know? But he ministered in his own unique way, that young man can dance!!! Everyone watched attentively as he went forth, and of course sang along. (How can you not) He was excellent.

Our last open mic performer was Bruce Kelley. He sang an original song called “As we go”. He reminds me of the crooner Aaron Neville who has a southern feel to his vocals. He is an honest singer/songwriter who conveys a message of encouragement as we walk with the Lord. I’ve known he and his wife Rachel for years now. They are a couple who honors the Lord in their marriage and with their lives. Thank you for coming to support and lend your gifts as well.

Yours truly sang a few tunes (Yall don’t hear me, Never Say Never and Made It Thru-you can iLike my music on FB:)) I was the host and DJ ( ima need some equipment-lol) and I want to thank everyone for coming out and supporting this event. It could not have happened without you. The only thing I forgot was my camera, but I saw video cams, tripods, cell phones and digitals, so if you have footage and pics, PLEASE post them and tag them or email them to me yasuembassy@gmail.com

So Toledo, you cannot say there isn’t a place for you to enjoy good coffee, good company and good music! Many thanks to Jesse Lipman and family and Imani Lateef who lent the space, and served the best in locally roasted coffee, fruit smoothies, and foods.

Visit www.groundleveltoledo.com for upcoming events, the coffee/smoothie/food menu and to print coupons.